Serum Concentrations of Trace Elements/Minerals in Patients with Diffuse Systemic Sclerosis.

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Immunology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Trace elements and minerals are vital for cellular function and immune system health.
• Imbalances in these elements are linked to autoimmune diseases.
• Diffuse systemic sclerosis (dSSc) is an autoimmune disorder with complex pathophysiology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify serum concentrations of key trace elements and minerals in patients with dSSc.
• To investigate the association between these elements and pulmonary fibrosis in dSSc.

Main Methods:

• Serum levels of potassium (K), sodium (Na), chlorine (Cl), calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), and magnesium (Mg) were measured.
• Analyzed 51 dSSc patients and 106 healthy controls using Roche Cobas 8000.
• Compared element concentrations between dSSc patients with and without pulmonary fibrosis.

Main Results:

• Significantly increased serum concentrations of K, Ca, P, and Mg were observed in dSSc patients.
• Significantly decreased serum concentration of Cu was found in dSSc patients.
• Lower serum Cu levels were specifically noted in dSSc patients with pulmonary fibrosis.

Conclusions:

• Serum levels of K, Ca, P, Cu, and Mg are significantly altered in dSSc patients.
• Reduced serum copper concentration is associated with the presence of pulmonary fibrosis in dSSc.
• These findings highlight potential roles for specific minerals and trace elements in dSSc pathogenesis and complications.